In the previous post I mentioned that a TEAC A-4010A tape machine was a tape-eater. It was breaking the thinner commercially recorded tapes.
It turns out that this machine can have its tape tensions adjusted. But, before that is done it was necessary to clean and lubricate the A-4010S so that it is in peak condition. Conceivably, if the machine is not otherwise working properly, the tensions adjustments could be wrong.
In the photo on the right we see the inner mechanical working of the tape machine. You can see a primary drive wheel in the center and a belt extending down and to the right that turns a flywheel. That flywheel is on a the tape drive spindle.
In the top left and right corners are the components mounted to tape drive motors. That’s three motors in one machine! No wonder it is heavy.
The official service manual (yes, it is available online) specifies the lubrication points. It also discussed cleaning and various adjustments. Cleaning the A-4010S took a couple of hours. Over 50 years of goo and grime had to be carefully removed. When that was all done, the machine was reassembled.
The next step is adjusting the tape tension.